The largest national park outside of Alaska, Death Valley is an almost unfathomable place. The park’s 3.3 million acres /1.34 million hectares encompass mountain-size sand dunes, below-sea-level salt flats, mysterious singing rocks, and colorful sandstone canyons.

Manzanita Lake is one of the most photographed lakes in Lassen and the centerpiece of the park’s main visitor area. There’s a lot to do here: swimming, kayak rentals, ranger-led programs, cabin rentals, a large campground and camp store, and a 1.6-mile/2.6-km hiking trail that circles the lake—perfect for kids who like to explore.